Weird But True

Local Man Sets World Record for "Longest Nap," Sparks New Craze in Competitive Sleeping

In a groundbreaking event for both the nap and wellness communities, 34-year-old Ben Larkin of Des Moines, Iowa, has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest continuous nap, clocking in at an astonishing 28 hours and 14 minutes of uninterrupted sleep.

The feat began unexpectedly last Saturday afternoon when Larkin settled in for what he thought would be a quick power nap after a "pretty large" brunch of pancakes, bacon, and three egg-and-sausage burritos. However, it quickly became clear that this was no ordinary snooze.

“It’s like he entered another dimension,” said his roommate and unofficial “nap coach,” Kyle Farber, who reported that Ben snored “like a jackhammer at first,” but eventually reached a state of “almost supernatural quietness.”

As the hours ticked by, Larkin’s family and friends gathered in his apartment, torn between concern and awe. According to witnesses, there were moments of tension—particularly around the 12-hour mark—when everyone thought he might wake up. However, each time he seemed to stir, he only burrowed deeper into his blankets, mumbling incoherent phrases about “more syrup.”

The Social Media Craze

Larkin's marathon nap has already sparked a new social media craze dubbed "Competitive Snoozing," with sleep enthusiasts across the country eagerly documenting their own attempts at record-breaking naps. TikTok has been flooded with videos of people preparing elaborate "Nap Training Stations," complete with lavender pillows, noise-canceling earmuffs, and curated sleep playlists.

Archard and husband Eric welcomed several dozen strangers to their wedding after back-to-back hurricanes nearly ruined their nuptials. Wandering Ducks Photo & Film LLC
The couple decided to issue an open invitation to healthcare workers of Asheville area hospital. Wandering Ducks Photo & Film LLC
“It’s really become a lifestyle,” says 22-year-old influencer Jenna Parks, who has gained over a million followers by streaming her sleep attempts. "I call it my 'Dream Aesthetic.' Now, if you need me, I'll be working on my REM stats.”

Doctors have yet to determine the long-term effects of such prolonged napping, but Ben remains unfazed. When he finally awoke, groggy but triumphant, his first words to the crowd waiting eagerly were, “Did I miss lunch?”

In related news: Ben has since signed a sponsorship deal with a popular mattress company and is considering a career as a “professional sleeper.” His first official event will be an appearance at the upcoming "SlumberCon 2024," where he’ll deliver a keynote on "Pajamas and the Pursuit of Peaceful Power Naps.”

After Helene — a Category 4 hurricane that has caused at least 228 deaths and nearly $88 billion in damage — Archard believed she would have to push back her wedding once again.

Hurricane Helene left residents displaced and buildings damaged. Getty Images
Archard considered rescheduling her wedding for the safety of her guests and vendors. AFP via Getty Images
Hurricane Milton, which trailed Hurricane Helene by a few short weeks, tore through many areas throughout Florida. NOAA / SWNS
The bride nicknamed her wedding guests “Hollywood extras,” instead of referring to them as strangers. Wandering Ducks Photo & Film LLC
Although Archard’s wedding didn’t go as planned, she said it was “perfect.” Wandering Ducks Photo & Film LLC
The Archards’ son was a welcomed addition to their big day celebration. Wandering Ducks Photo & Film LLC
Archard went around her wedding venue introducing herself to most of her guests. Wandering Ducks Photo & Film LLC
Archard and Eric had already pushed their wedding date back by a year after they suddenly became pregnant in 2023. Wandering Ducks Photo & Film LLC

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